Derby Office

The West Bromwich Albion Academy held its annual tournament at the premiership club’s ground, in memory of former player Blake Melbourne, raising nearly £2,000.

Blake, who had been an aspirational member of the academy, sadly died from cancer in September 2011 aged just 14.

Teams from across the academy took part, from under 9s to under 16s as well as teams made up of coaches, ex-professionals and parents of the academy players.

His friend and fellow academy member Tyler Roberts was at the Hawthorns to give out medals to the winning teams.

Tyler, 17, who has been part of the travelling side of the premiership club and has just been called up to train with the national Welsh senior side ahead of the Euro qualifiers, said: “Today is a day to remember and honour Blake.

“I am so proud to be a part of this day and to help raise money for such fantastic cause.”

Fantastic event

Matt Layton, academy operations manager, said: “The Blake Melbourne tournament is a fantastic event that brings together the academy and the local community each year.

“As the tournament is held at the Hawthorns, it is very competitive from our youngest players through to our parent teams!

“The event raises vital funds for CLIC Sargent which is a charity that is close to all our hearts at the club.

“All participants have been incredibly generous in their donations.”

So grateful

CLIC Sargent Fundraising Manager Anna Finnegan said: “There has been a great atmosphere here today and a real feeling of togetherness and support.

“We are so grateful to everyone taking part.

“Last year CLIC Sargent supported over 500 children and young people with cancer in the West Midlands.

“It is thanks to the generosity of fundraisers in the local community that we can work towards changing what it means to be diagnosed with cancer when you are young.”